Cobb also is very close, according to McCarthy. The coach said Cobb -- who has been dealing with a biceps injury -- might play in Friday's preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks.

McCarthy's positive update on Nelson came two days after Nelson said he was unsure if he'd be ready for the start of the regular season.

The possibility of Cobb playing Friday certainly is a good sign that the Packers don't have long-term concerns about the injury. As for Nelson, Green Bay is likely to take every precaution with a playmaker whose biggest issue is staying on the field.